Padayappa throwback: When Ramya Krishnan said that no mainstream heroine would have played Neelambari; ‘I did it out of no other way’

Padayappa, the blockbuster 1999 Tamil film starring Rajinikanth, is all prepared for a re-release. The film will be hitting theatres on December 12, Friday, for the occasion of the superstar’s 75th birthday. As much as Rajinikanth’s titular role is iconic, so is the antagonist character Neelambari, one of a kind and played by Ramya Krishnan. Ahead of Padayappa’s re-release, a clip of Ramya Krishnan speaking about the role has gone viral.

Padayappa throwback: Ramya Krishnan on her role Neelambari

Ramya Krishnan played the role of Neelambari, the headstrong, determined, extroverted, and overtly ambitious woman Neelambari opposite Rajinikanth in Padayappa. Subsequently, Neelambari became an iconic role in Tamil cinema.

Also read: Padayappa re-release: Rajinikanth revisits casting for Neelambari ‘they suggested Madhuri Dixit, Sridevi but no one had that power in their eyes’

Ahead of Padayappa’s re-release, a clip of Ramya Krishnan speaking about Neelambari has resurfaced on social media. In an old television program, Ramya Krishnan is heard saying, “It became a dream role only after it got released and received audience's reactions. Before that, I don't think any other mainstream heroine would have the courage to do it. I did it because I had no way out and wanted to act in at least one film with him (Rajinikanth). Luckily, it worked out for me. I never played Neelambari, thinking it would be my dream role. I was scared, and many junior artistes would scare me about the dialogues, if I would survive in Chennai." The actor also said Rajinikanth made her feel secure to play Neelambari and never showed off his stardom in front of her.

Also read: Vaa Vaathiyaar release in trouble, LIK likely postponed; Is Padayappa only hope for Tamil cinema in December?

Padayappa sequel to be titled Neelambari:

Rajinikanth recently revealed that Padayappa may get a sequel, which would be called Neelambari. With the works going on, the superstar said that if all goes well, he will announce the sequel very soon. However, in the meantime, Ramya Krishnan and Rajinikanth paired up in Jailer, the sequel to which is under production. The duo is expected to once again join hands for Jailer 2. Directed by Nelson Dilipkumar, Jailer 2 is slated for a 2026 release.

Padayappa FAQs

Q. Why is Padayappa not on OTT?

A. Padayappa is not available on any OTT platform, because Rajinikanth did not sell the rights, wanting it to be a theatre watch only.

Q. Is Padayappa hit or flop?

A. Padayappa was a massive hit in Rajinikanth's career and went on to become a cult classic.

Q. Is Padayappa 2 based on a true story?

A. Rajinikanth recently revealed that Padayappa 2 is on the cards and will be titled Neelambari.